CPT® Code 36217

Selective catheter placement, arterial system; initial third order or more selective thoracic or brachiocephalic branch, within a vascular family

A selective catheter placement procedure involves the introduction of a catheter into a specific branch of the arterial system, particularly within the thoracic or brachiocephalic branches. This procedure is categorized as an initial third-order or more selective placement, indicating that the catheter is advanced into higher-order branches of the vascular system. The process typically begins with the insertion of a catheter into an extremity artery, with the femoral artery being the preferred access point, although access can also be achieved through an upper extremity artery. A small incision is made at the chosen site to facilitate the placement of an introducer sheath, which allows for the safe introduction of a guidewire. The guidewire is then navigated through the arterial system, starting from the femoral artery, progressing through the iliac arteries, and into the aorta. Once the catheter is positioned in the aorta, the physician selectively advances it into the first-order branch and continues to navigate through subsequent higher-order branches until reaching the targeted site for evaluation. The procedure may involve the injection of medication or radiopaque contrast media to enhance imaging and diagnostic capabilities. This code is specifically used when the highest-order branch catheterized is the third-order or beyond, distinguishing it from codes used for first- and second-order branches.